Shawnee State University

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum combines classroom theory, skills lab simulation and supervised clinical experiences. Core nursing modules cover human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, clinical decision-making and fundamentals of professional nursing practice. Specialty coursework supports concentrations in nursing administration (leadership, healthcare systems, quality improvement), nursing research (research methods, statistics, evidence-based practice) and clinical nursing (advanced health assessment, acute and complex care, care across the lifespan).

• Foundations of Nursing Practice and Clinical Skills
• Anatomy & Physiology and Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology for Nursing
• Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning
• Mental Health and Community/Public Health Nursing
• Maternal–Child and Paediatric Nursing
• Adult Medical–Surgical and Critical Care Nursing
• Nursing Leadership, Management and Health Policy (Administration focus)
• Research Methods, Statistics and Evidence-Based Practice (Research focus)
• Capstone or practicum project aligned with chosen focus area

Extensive clinical placements in hospitals, primary-care clinics, long-term care and community settings form a substantial part of the programme. Students will also spend time in simulation laboratories to practise high-acuity scenarios and interprofessional care before entering live clinical rotations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and meet university admission standards. Typical prerequisites include coursework in biology (with lab), chemistry or general physical science, and mathematics; some programmes also expect courses in microbiology, anatomy & physiology, and statistics. Successful applicants normally demonstrate academic readiness through their prior grades and may be asked to submit transcripts and references.

Because nursing programmes are rigorous and community-facing, admitted students must satisfy health and safety requirements such as immunisation records, a current CPR certification, and clearance from background checks or drug screening as required for clinical placement. Some cohorts require an entrance assessment (for example, the TEAS) or an interview as part of the selection process; consult the nursing admissions office for current requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX‑RN) to become licensed registered nurses. Career pathways include acute-care nursing in hospitals, primary care and community health, home health and hospice, long-term care, and specialised clinical roles such as critical care, emergency, maternal–child and paediatrics. With further experience or postgraduate study, graduates can move into nursing administration, clinical nurse specialist roles, nurse education, quality improvement and nursing research positions.

BSN graduates are also well positioned to pursue graduate study (MSN, DNP, or PhD) for advanced clinical practice, leadership, education or research careers.

Why study at Shawnee State University

Shawnee State University offers a nursing programme that emphasises hands-on learning in a student-focused environment. The programme provides access to simulation labs and supervised clinical placements with regional healthcare providers, giving practical experience in both rural and urban care settings. Class sizes tend to be smaller than at large universities, allowing close faculty mentoring and direct support during clinical preparation and professional development.

The curriculum reflects regional health needs and prepares students to work effectively in community settings characteristic of Appalachian Ohio. Support services for nursing students include academic advising, skills coaching and preparation for licensure and job placement. Prospective students should contact Shawnee State's nursing department for details on programme options, clinical partnerships and current admissions guidance.